Delayed Reconstruction of Nasal Tip Amputation After a Dog Bite Using a Cartilage Graft and Paramedian Forehead Flap

Abstract

The timing and method of reconstruction of an amputated nose due to a dog bite are still controversial. Here, we describe a delayed reconstruction using the paramedian forehead flap with a simultaneous cartilage graft to address a contracted nose from a dog bite. A healthy, 52-year-old patient was attacked by his acquaintance’s dog, resulting nasal tip amputation that included cartilage. The composite graft was performed, and secondary healing resulted in a short nose deformity. Five months after the injury, a conchal cartilage graft and paramedian forehead flap were performed simultaneously to correct the shape of the deformity. At 1 year postoperatively, the flap survived without complications, and the short nose deformity was successfully corrected. In summary, immediate composite graft after a dog bite could result in a contracted nose, but the deformity can be corrected by a simultaneous paramedian forehead flap and cartilage graft.